“The highly sought-after 23-year-old has penned a five-year deal on Wearside and joins for an undisclosed fee. Rodwell rose through the ranks at Everton, making his debut at the age of 16 in a European tie against AZ Alkmaar in December 2007.”

“His league bow – as a substitute against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light – came three months later before the Southport-born midfielder went on to become a regular for the Toffees.”

“Rodwell, who has been capped on three occasions at senior level by England, made 109 appearances for Everton before joining Manchester City in summer 2012,” it added.